Don't remodel yourself into trouble

In a recent national poll, 67% of homeowners said they've tackled a major home project themselves, with Millennials the most likely to let the sawdust fly. In that same poll, though, 52% said they've had to hire a pro to fix their DIY mistakes.

Call it the HGTV Effect.

We asked our claims experts for examples of when homeowners should pick up their credit cards instead of their claw hammers. Here's what they said:

DIY Don'ts

Think twice about projects that involve the foundation, structure, or roof, or that include significant plumbing work. Ditto for anything that requires permitting and inspection. Examples include electrical wiring, changes to walls, rebuilding decks or porches, water heaters, or changes to the heating or cooling system.

You'll also want to be careful about projects that command artistic knack or major power tools. Good examples: wallpaper hanging and tile laying.